[CREATE] LGM 2009

[Plinnell]

On Wednesday 11 June 2008 17:40:22 Jon Phillips wrote:
> Wasn't there the idea to do LGM 1 year in Europe and the alternate year
> in the americas?

Yes. I think this should continue to be a goal too.

> I don't mind where its at, as long as the story is compelling, and the
> overall deal to get most developers to the region fits.

+1
> Obviously, major cities are going to have the advantage with cheapest
> airfares, and then need solid backers in the city. I would rank easiest
> to get, and best overall deal to as:
>
> 1. london
> 2. NYC
> 3. Amsterdam
> 4. LA/SF
> 5. Vancouver/Toronto (good option IMO)
> 6. Tokyo (but low developer count here)
>
> Jon
Putting on my old conference manager's hat:

The other consideration besides airfares is lodging costs and availability. 
Taking your list:

1. london - very high lodging/food and transport costs on the ground
2. NYC -  very high lodging costs and availability is often very difficult for 
groups
3. Amsterdam - reasonable compared to the others on all counts
4. LA/SF - SF lodging costs are in the same league as NYC LA transport is 
difficult without a car in some cases
5. Vancouver/Toronto - both have good value on all counts - Toronto has the 
edge on lodging and ground transport
6. Tokyo (but low developer count here) - very high lodging/food and transport 
costs on the ground

Other cities which can be considered:

Boston - good Euro airlinks and attractive airfares - lodging is less than 
NYC - lots of high tech in the area and many universities. The biggest con 
against it is Immigration into Boston is often not very nice.

Montreal - like Boston and very reasonable lodging costs

Peter